Randy Moss was a Kenny Britt hamstring injury away from hitting free agency far earlier than he expected.
NFL Network’s Albert Breer confirmed that the Titans would not have claimed Moss if not for Britt’s injury, which is expected to keep the second year receiver out 6-8 weeks.
Going unclaimed wouldn’t have ended Moss’ chances to work this year, of course. Tennessee and other teams may have still been interested at a lower price.
The Titans are hoping that Moss’ arrival can give Chris Johnson some relief. One source told Breer that defenses are showing “An absolutely unreal commitment to containing [Johnson]” this year.
On most teams, quarterbacks set up a rushing attack. In Tennessee, Chris Johnson may be the biggest reason why Vince Young leads the league in quarterback rating.
At this stage of his career, we’re not sure Moss is much of an upgrade from Britt. But Moss’ presence should help the Titans’ vertical passing game stay effective. When Britt gets healthy, the Titans will be difficult to defend.